Informal gathering to discuss setting up a Coalition of the Oppressed

 Dear friends,

Given the rise of religious extremism as seen recently in the Charsadda and Sialkot blasphemy cases, and given the mainstreaming of TLP and accommodation of the TTP, and in the light of our failed efforts over the last 4 years to unite the Left and nationalists, not to mention the Left itself, there is a suggestion that the very real threat to democracy and progressive politics should be countered by creating a broad front of workers, peasants, oppressed nationalities, women, students, youth, religious minorities and any other oppressed community to be called a Coalition of the Oppressed. Friends are requested to respond to the suggestion of holding an informal gathering to discuss the general situation and the idea of creating such a Coalition. Depending on the response, a meeting will be called at the Research and Publication Centre to concretise the idea. All responses, even critical ones, are welcome.

Rashed Rahman

Editor, Pakistan Monthly Review (PMR) (link: pakistanmonthlyreview.com)

Director, Research and Publication Centre, 2nd floor, 65 Main Boulevard Gulberg, Lahore.